Pseudomonas Folliculitis Associated With Use of Hot Tubs and Spas

In brief: Pseudomonas folliculitis is an increasingly common infection contracted in hot tubs, spas, and swimming pools. Diagnosis requires a thorough knowledge of the symptoms. Patients usually develop a pruritic skin eruption that involves areas abundant with apocrine glands such as the axillae, breasts, and pubic area. Symptoms include itching, pain, and redness of the eyes and ears. The physician should obtain a detailed history that focuses on the patient's recent use of hot tubs, spas, or swimming pools. Treatment is not usually necessary because the infection is most often self-limited and benign. The best preventive measures include chlorination, pH monitoring, and proper maintenance of the whirlpool.